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Majlis al Jinn Cave
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Landmark
Majlis al Jinn, meaning 'Meeting Place of the Jinn', is one of the largest cave chambers in the world, located on the Selma Plateau in Oman. The single chamber is so vast it could accommodate several jumbo jets. Its floor area is approximately 310 by 225 meters, with a ceiling height of 120 meters. The cave was discovered in 1983 by American hydrologist Don Davison Jr., who was searching for water sources. Access to the cave is extremely difficult and requires specialized rappelling equipment, as there are only three natural entrances, all of which are vertical shafts from the ceiling. For years, the cave was only accessible to experienced cavers and adventurers. Due to safety concerns and to protect its pristine environment, access to the cave is currently restricted to the public, but plans for sustainable tourism development are under discussion. Its sheer size and geological uniqueness make it a natural wonder.
- Location: Oman
- Top sights: Beehive Tomb · beehive tombs · Jabal Bani Jabir
- Nearby: Qurayyat (26 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 18 | 20 | 24 | 29 | 33 | 34 | 34 | 33 | 31 | 28 | 23 | 20 |
| Rain mm | 13 | 13 | 20 | 13 | 7 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 8 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Majlis al Jinn Cave is accessible only through a narrow fissure, requiring an abseil descent with professional gear. Visiting is strictly limited to guided tours with prior permission, as the entry is technically challenging and demands experience.
Typical hours
Typical visiting hours are usually from early morning until late afternoon, depending on the season and daylight. Since the cave requires a guided descent, specific times are arranged in advance with the tour operator.
Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the cave, but flash is often prohibited to protect the local wildlife. For decent shots, bring a fast lens or use long exposures since the chamber is extremely dark.
Time needed
The full excursion including travel and descent usually takes a full day. Expect about 4 to 6 hours inside the cave, including safety briefing and the climb back out.
Combine with
Combine this trip with other natural wonders like the Wahiba Sands or Wadi Bani Khalid. A detour to nearby Nizwa, with its historic fort, is also highly recommended.
Getting there
The cave is located in a remote desert area, best reached by a 4x4 vehicle. From Muscat, it's roughly a three-hour drive south, with the final section on unpaved tracks.
Insider tip
Book the tour well in advance with a local operator, as the daily visitor numbers are strictly limited. Bring plenty of water and sturdy shoes - the climb out is very strenuous.
Geography
Facts
- The cave is estimated to be 50 million years old.
- The total volume of the chamber is approximately 4 million cubic meters.
- The three entrances are known as Khoshilat (First Drop), Asterisk, and Cheryl's Drop.
- Base jumper Felix Baumgartner successfully jumped into the cave in 2007.
- There is no water or light inside the cave except for what filters through the entrances.
- The temperature inside is a constant cool.
- The discovery was part of a program to map Oman's karst resources.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Majlis al Jinn Cave (5)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you visit Majlis al Jinn cave freely?
No, access is strictly regulated and requires official permission.
How deep is the cave?
The chamber is one of the largest in the world; descending requires rope technique.
Is it open to tourists?
No, tourist visits without a professional reason are not allowed.
Where is the cave exactly located?
It is located in the Salma Plateau region, off paved roads.
Are there any dangers?
Yes, extremely steep descent, rockfall, and lack of oxygen are risks.
Majlis al Jinn Cave: where is it located?
Majlis al Jinn Cave is located in Oman.
Majlis al Jinn Cave: what is there to see?
Highlights include Beehive Tomb, beehive tombs, Jabal Bani Jabir.
Majlis al Jinn Cave: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Nov, Dec.
Majlis al Jinn Cave: why is it worth visiting?
Majlis al Jinn, meaning 'Meeting Place of the Jinn', is one of the largest cave chambers in the world, located on the Selma Plateau in Oman.
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